Relieving Post-Traumatic Stress in Dogs

Everyone is familiar, in one way or another, with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in humans, but did you know that your four-legged companions can also suffer from it? The concept is still relatively new. Interest in the subject began to grow when American veterans returning from war started noticing strange behavior in dogs that had accompanied them to Iraq and Afghanistan. The condition has only been recognized in dogs over the past 10 years. There is still much to learn about it. Since then, approximately 5 to 17% of dogs have been diagnosed with canine PTSD. What causes it? A stressful situation—such as military service, physical abuse, a natural disaster, an attack, abandonment, or even a thunderstorm—triggers behaviors similar to the symptoms experienced by their two-legged friends with PTSD. And the more anxiety-inducing the experience, the greater the risk that the dog will develop extreme behaviors. As with humans, different dogs exhibit different symptoms. These usually manifest as negative behavioral changes fueled by stress and discomfort. Some become hyper-vigilant or have disrupted sleep. Others avoid people, situations, buildings, or work areas where they were previously comfortable. Triggered by fear, stress, or simply a change in their environment, some dogs experience sudden changes in temperament, becoming unusually aggressive toward their owners, or clingy and timid. Many stop performing the tasks they were trained to do. These symptoms aren’t always apparent at first glance, as dogs often compensate in new situations and the trigger may be subtle. However, a thorough understanding of the animal and the condition makes it easier to recognize the problem, seek out a specialist, and ensure better care. A veterinarian specializing in animal behavior will be able to develop an appropriate treatment and care plan. “The best ways to manage PTSD in dogs are a combination of behavioral therapy and medication,” explains Dr. Lori Teller, associate professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. “This may include desensitization therapy—in which a dog is exposed to low levels of stress that are gradually increased to build tolerance to the stimulus—playtime with a well-socialized dog, physical exercise, or increased mental stimulation. Prescribed medications are typically anxiolytics, antidepressants, or beta-blockers. ” But no matter what, time and patience are central to managing canine PTSD. Rigorous and consistent daily work, as well as open communication with the veterinary team, are essential.